NLP (Neuro Linguistic Programming) Getting Started With Courses

A Little bit of Background

Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP) was originally developed in the 1970’s; by John Grinder and Richard Bandler. The aim is to make ‘models of excellence’. These models are based on the thinking and behavioral skills of particularly successful people.

Richard Bandler had a background in mathematics and psychology; especially Gestalt therapy. John Grinder was a professor of linguistics.

Moreover, Bandler and Grinder combined forces to analyse the work and success rate of Satir; who was influential in family therapy. Next, they looked at the work of Perls. Perls was the founder of Gestalt; an experimental new psychotherapy that aims to enhance awareness, freedom and self expression.

Bandler and Grinder also examined the work of Milton H. Erickson; who was hugely influential in the field of Hypnosis. Furthermore, Erickson was particularly famed for his unorthodox; as well as successful methods in Clinical Hypnosis.

What’s the differences between NLP Neuro Linguistic Programming and Hypnosis?

The first issue with trying to discuss the differences between NLP and hypnosis is that neither has a definition that is accepted by all.

Both topics are huge, diverse, constantly evolving and extremely subjective.

Trying to define them is a bit like trying to define religion. Indeed, religion means different things to different people. Furthermore, there are different branches and types of religion. In addition religion is used in different ways; by different people. Similar to religious experiences are very subjective. (Also, each school of thought tends to think that their own is the best!)

Both hypnosis and N.L.P. are about de-programming; or re-setting areas of the unconscious mind to break negative habits, feelings, thoughts and behaviors; and promote more beneficial and rewarding ones.

Just to confuse issues; it is possible to use methods and techniques inside a hypnotherapy session.

Some specialists argue that there is no difference between NLP and hypnosis and that the techniques are actually hypnosis; as the creators of NLP modelled a lot of hypnotherapy techniques.

Interestingly, NLP and hypnosis used together are more effective than each alone.

NLP, similar to hypnosis; is not organized or regulated in any way; so there is a vast; sometimes confusing amount of both practitioners, courses and information on the internet.

NLP does not have a central body that monitors and assesses standards. There is however a Professional Guild where you can find practitioners and training courses that do have an operational code of practice.